Eleven o’clock and we didn’t see the sun until 10:40. This morning I drove to my storage unit and retrieved the many new planters stored there. I’m trying to “plan ahead” and prepare for the plants that may arrive soon (via FedEx or United Parcel). I arranged and rearranged planters trying to place them so aesthetically attractive–and best usage. The Cape Honeysuckle and two Mandevilla plants need something large. I want the Butterfly bush to have room to expand. This planter is probably larger than necessary for its first season?! (Repeating something I’ve mentioned before: Management won’t let me plant in the yard. I must limit my gardening to planters.)

Tentatively, I think the new Mosquito plant will go in the tan-color planter next to the rain barrels. I’m undecided about where to plant the Strawberry plant. See my earlier post titled Gardening Vicariously. And the blue Geraniums…? Perhaps in hanging baskets? So many decisions!! 

Soon, need to purchase many large bags of planter soil. Last year’s soil (in planters) will be dumped/spread along the berm so Periwinkle can grow and cover that ugly (despicable) white pipe.  (I have over a dozen Periwinkle [ground cover plants] from a friend’s garden. I’m defiant and will put Periwinkle in the ground!! If I’d had a choice… I would have spent the money for a berm that harmonized with my yard.) ~~ I really would like to expand the patio with eleven more paving blocks (in the corner beyond the rain barrels). ~~ Lots to do; this should keep me busy for a few weeks!! ~~ Oh, I’m planning for a veggie garden, too!!

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Three o’clock, same day, same obsession. Nap time; I’ve been up since 4:30.

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FYI: I provide lots of good drainage for my plants and I elevate planters so they aren’t sitting in dirt. Healthier plants, and planters are more attractive?!?!

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Last season, the two Mandevilla climbed the tree. This season (and thereafter) they are limited to the trellis. This season (and thereafter) the tree belongs to a Trumpet Vine.

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Yes, I’m “coo-coo” about birds!! All this work (and expense) to attract Hummingbirds.

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Click each picture to enlarge them for more detail.